Wax Plant

This plant should be watered once every 1-2 weeks based on growing conditions, such as air humidity, temperature, and light intensity. When it comes to water, the moisture should be kept at a consistent level but not overly wet because the plant can become susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. It is best to water this plant when the top two inches of soil feel dry.

Wax Plant prefers bright, indirect light, but can also tolerate low light conditions. When placed in an area with too low of light, the leaves will become stretched out in search of light and the plant may not produce as many flowers. When placed in an area with direct sunlight, the leaves of the plant will become scorched or faded. When placed in ideal bright, indirect light conditions, the plant will produce more flowers.

The ideal temperature for the Wax Plant is 65-75 Fahrenheit (18-24 Celsius). During the winter months, the temperature should not drop below 55 Fahrenheit or 13 Celsius. In the summer months, the temperature should not exceed 80 Fahrenheit or 27 Celsius.

Wax Plant will thrive in high humidity, as well as average to low temperature. During the winter months, an increase in humidity can reduce potential plant stress due to cold air. During the summer months, lower humidity can help the leaves from wilting in the heat.

The Wax Plant prefers a soil mix that is well-draining and has good aeration. The best soil mix for this plant is a combination of peat moss, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark, and sand. Additionally, this soil mix should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-7.0.

Fertilization should be done during the spring and summer months, and should be done every four to six weeks. An all-purpose fertilizer, diluted to 1/4th of the recommended strength, should be used. In addition to the regular fertilizing schedule, bark mixes or compost can be added to the soil to provide additional nutrients to the plant.

The Wax Plant is known to attract mites, aphids, thrips, mealybugs, and scale. To get rid of mites, use a cotton swab to carefully move the mites off the plant and then dispose of them. Spray the Wax Plant with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to get rid of aphids and thrips. For mealybugs, use isopropyl alcohol to help get rid of them. Lastly, for scale insect, try a combination of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to get rid of them. Be sure to re-treat after a week or two if needed.

Repotting is done when the existing pot becomes too small or in the event that the roots become pot bound or a new potting mix is needed. Generally, Wax Plant should be repotted every three years in a larger pot using a well-draining soil mix. Repotting should take place either during early spring or late fall to ensure successful transplanting.

Wax Plants should be pruned frequently when trying to maintain a thriving and healthy look. Pruning should be done to remove any dead or weak stems, and it is best to prune the plant after it has bloomed. It is important to sterilize any pruning tools before and after pruning with rubbing alcohol to help avoid the spread of any potential diseases.

Mulching is not necessary for the Wax Plant, as it can be grown without it. However, if a mulch layer is desired, then use a mulch that is made of cedar or cypress. This type of mulch will help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and improve temperature.

To propagate the Wax Plant, start by cutting a stem with at least one leaf node and air-layering the stem. In a few weeks, the roots will form on the stem cut. Once roots are visible, the stem can be planted in soil. Another method for propagation is by taking stem cuttings from the plant, removing the lower leaves, and dipping them into rooting hormone. Afterward, the stem cuttings should be potted in small containers filled with a well-draining soil mix.

The Wax Plant should be provided with some sort of support structure, such as a trellis or stake, to help the vines properly grow and climb up. To help guide the stems of the plant, use soft ties. This type of support structure will also help the plant look more full and bushy.

To ensure healthy foliage, the Wax Plant should be given a rest period during the winter months when the day's become shorter. During this rest period, reduce the water and light given to plant and eliminate pruning and fertilizing. This rest period is important to help the plant recover and provide it with additional blooms in the upcoming season.

The Wax Plant is non-toxic to cats & dogs.